For centuries, Sri Lanka has captured the imaginations of wayfarers from everywhere, evidenced in the myriad evocative names given to it by travellers of yore: Serendib, Pearl of the Orient, Island of Dharma, and as Marco Polo called it, “the fairest isle”.

This teardrop-shaped island in the Indian Ocean boasts a diverse range of landscapes from golden beaches to rolling hills, deep forests and lush tea plantations. It is especially perfect for adventurers seeking birding, diving, camping and wildlife watching. Sri Lanka is also a destination for those interested in Buddhist culture, as it is home to stunning relics and living stupas that resound with history and meaning, including six UNESCO World Heritage sites.